‘Art Blooms’ in City Park on Canada Day weekend

Artfest Kingston returns to City Park on Canada Day Weekend. This year’s, ‘Art Blooms,’ promises to immerse attendees in a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere, featuring an impressive lineup of activities, exhibitions, and performances.

City Park will be filled with over 150 talented artists from across Canada, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for art enthusiasts of all ages. According to a release from organizers, the highly anticipated arts and cultural festival, is set to captivate visitors from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 1 to 3, 2023.

Artfest visitors can expect the following features, as provided in the release:

150+ Artists’ Exhibits: Artfest Kingston proudly showcases the work of more than 150 talented artists from various regions of Canada. From breathtaking paintings to intricate sculptures, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums.

Jay Redbird Indigenous Arts Pavilion: The festival honours and celebrates Indigenous art and culture through the Jay Redbird Indigenous Arts Pavilion. Visitors will have the chance to engage with Indigenous artists, learn about their heritage, and admire their stunning creations.

Live Music: Attendees will be treated to an outstanding lineup of live musical performances, filling the air with delightful melodies throughout the event. From soulful ballads to energizing rhythms, the music at Artfest Kingston will enhance the overall ambiance and create an unforgettable experience.

Spearhead Beer Garden: Artfest Kingston recognizes the importance of great refreshments while enjoying the festival. The Spearhead Beer Garden offers a selection of locally crafted beers, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to relax, mingle, and savour the flavours of the region.

BikeBrush: Pedal Powered Art: Combining art with sustainability, the BikeBrush initiative allows visitors to create unique hand-painted bicycles. This interactive feature adds an element of creativity and physical activity to the festival, making it a truly engaging experience for everyone involved.

Gourmet Food: Culinary delights await visitors at Artfest Kingston, with a wide array of gourmet food options to satisfy every palate. From artisanal snacks to delectable meals, the festival ensures that attendees can indulge in a memorable gastronomic adventure.

KCAD Kids Art Central: Artfest Kingston values the importance of nurturing young artistic talents. KCAD Kids Art Central offers children the opportunity to engage in hands-on art activities, fostering their creativity and encouraging their passion for the arts.

Poets @ Artfest: Celebrating the power of words and the beauty of poetry, Artfest Kingston features Poets @ Artfest. Attendees can listen to captivating poetry readings by talented local poets, take an Intuitive Writing workshop with Bruce Kauffman and create fresh poetry lines for the Art Blooms project. A harmonious blend of art and literature!

ParticiPaint Mural: Visitors can become a part of the artistic process by contributing to the Participaint Mural. This collaborative project encourages attendees to add their personal touch to a large-scale mural, creating a meaningful and visually striking artwork, led by Ottawa mural artist Arthur II.

Seniors Silver Social Hub: Artfest Kingston aims to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all attendees. The Seniors Silver Social Hub provides a dedicated space for seniors to relax, connect, and enjoy the festival’s activities and entertainment. Spin the wheel to win prizes!

Live Dance Performances: The festival embraces the art of dance, showcasing captivating performances by talented dancers. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness an array of dance styles, ranging from contemporary to traditional, and be mesmerized by the beauty of movement. Featuring the Kingston School of Dance Youth Ensemble.

Live Theatre: The Barefoot Players, Kick & Push Festival, Blue Canoe Theatre, and Theatre Kingston bring live theatre to Artfest Kingston. These theatrical performances will transport visitors to captivating worlds and leave them enthralled by the power of storytelling.

Art Guardian Package Concierge Service: To enhance visitors’ experience, Artfest Kingston offers the Art Guardian Package Concierge Service. This exclusive service allows patrons to have their art purchases safely stored, enabling them to continue enjoying the festival without the burden of carrying their valuable acquisitions. Drive-by pick-up is available.

Ride to Artfest: Artfest Kingston encourages sustainable transportation options. The Ride to Artfest initiative promotes biking and public transit, providing attendees with convenient and eco-friendly alternatives to reach the festival.

Volunteering at Artfest Kingston: Artfest Kingston thrives on the support and dedication of volunteers. Individuals interested in contributing to the success of the event can sign up to volunteer and be a part of this exceptional celebration of art and culture.

Organizers noted that Artfest Kingston is a not-to-be-missed event that promises to inspire, engage, and entertain art enthusiasts, families, and visitors of all ages. For further information and updates, visit the Artfest Kingston website at https://shop.artfestontario.com.